Framework for Prevention: Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Activities for Communities

Abstract

In 1994, Illinois Governor Jim Edgar signed legislation creating the Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program making Illinois one of the first states to initiate this type of statute. The law required the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), contingent on funding, to establish a program to increase the awareness of the general public and health care providers regarding the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. In September, 1994, IDPH received a grant to develop and implement the Illinois Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Initiative (Initiative). As a part of the Initiative, the Framework for Prevention: Strategic Plan 1996, Framework for Prevention: Osteoporosis Information/Education Kit (Kit), and Framework for Prevention Workshops were developed. The strategic plan illustrated the current and projected impact of osteoporosis in Illinois and strategies to address the problem. The Kit included guidelines and resource material such as: camera-ready fact sheets, games, presentation tools and audio-visuals. The Kit can be used to incorporate osteoporosis education into community programs. The train-the-trainer workshops provided an update on osteoporosis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention and introduced the strategic plan and education kit for use in local communities. Twelve train-the-trainer workshops were held statewide and targeted dietetic professionals, physician's assistants, nurses (advanced practice, public health, school, etc.), medical office personnel, radiologists, dental hygienists, social workers, case managers and health educators. The same faculty was used at all workshops for cost effectiveness and consistency. Evaluations and summary reports of the kit and workshops were written.